Welbeck: Portland Collection scoops architecture prize

Published:16:55Saturday 25 June 2016

The new Portland Collection at The Harley Gallery and in Welbeckhas been announced as a 2016 RIBA National Award winner.

The award by Royal Institute of British Architects is the most rigorous and prestigious award for new buildings in the UK. The Portland Collection is one of 46 UK buildings to be recognised for its architectural excellence.

The Portland Collection opened in March 2016 after several years of planning.

It was carefully curated and designed to display the collection of paintings, sculpture, books, tapestries and furniture which was assembled by the Dukes of Portland and their families who have been at Welbeck for more than 400 years.

William Parente, chairman of the trustees of The Harley Foundation, said: “On behalf of the foundation and all its makers and staff, the trustees would like to express their gratitude at the great honour which this award from RIBA represents.

“Projects like this are collaborations between many, many people but specifically the relationship with Hugh Broughton Architects was positive and creative throughout.

“The trustees are grateful to Hugh and his team, and to all the visitors to the collection, who have been so enormously generous with their praise.”

The building has now eben entered into the shortlist for the RIBA Stirling Prize for the UK’s “Best Building of the Year”, which will be drawn from the 46 abuildings on Thursday, July 14.